Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan has defended Robert Griffin III, following a poor performance against the Detroit Lions.

Griffin threw an interception and lost a fumble during the 27-20 loss at the weekend, and his 326 passing yards did not result in a touchdown.

However, Shanahan refused to blame the second-year quarterback upon watching footage of the defeat on Monday.

Shanahan told ESPN: "It's not Robert's fault. I was very upset during the game. I thought he threw it haphazardly. But really, it was a great throw, but it just didn't work out that way. I won't go through the blame. After the game I thought it was a mistake, but it was a good throw."

The Redskins made the playoffs last season, but are struggling with an 0-3 record this time around.